Authorities in Tuy Hoa City in the coastal province of Phu Yen have banned swimming at a local beach due to the appearance of what they describe as a ‘big fish’, probably a shark, in recent days.
The city’s beach security management board has posted signs along the beach to inform people of the danger.
A rescue team has also been sent to the area, who will work around the clock to ensure safety for local people and tourists.
According to deputy head of the board, Pham Huu Tam, a big fish of about four metres in length and an estimated one tonne in weight has been seen near the beach in recent days.
"Local people first noticed the fish at 5pm on November 16 and it appeared again at 7am on November 17," Tam said. "It was seen some 10 metres from the shore for about five minutes."
The fish was described by local people to have black back and white belly. It had some injuries on the head. Although it has not been identified, local authorities said that it may be a shark.
Several local people were attacked by sharks while bathing on the beach four years ago. Sharks have also been seen at a beach in the neighbouring province of Binh Dinh.
